When former President Ian Khama arrives in Botswana for his welcome ceremony in Serowe this Friday, all eyes will be on President Eric Masisi to see if he would honour the invitation for him to be a part of the ceremony.
Khama is expected to arrive in Serowe at 10am this Friday after spending several years in self-imposed exile. According to a letter from the royal uncles of the Bangwato tribe, preparations are in full swing for a celebratory welcome ceremony for the former president.
In another formal communication to the District Commissioner’s office in Serowe, the royal uncles emphasized their wish for national leaders to be present during this significant event. They have specifically invited the president to the event, although many do not expect him to attend.
They cited a previous statement by President Masisi where he said that he harbored no ill will towards Khama. “I do not wish any persecution or harassment on the former president,” Masisi was quoted as saying in June, where he also told Botswana Democratic Party elders that upon being briefed of Khama’s warrant of arrest, he instructed that no handcuffs be used on him in case the law enforcement officers proceed to arrest him.
The royal uncles view Masisi’s words as those of someone willing to let go of whateveris creating disharmony between him and Khama, and want to use this welcome event as an opportunity to showcase unity and peaceful reconciliation. They believe the presence of both leaders would send a powerful message of peace, cooperation, and harmony—values they hope the nation will embrace. The Bangwato elders are optimistic that this occasion will mark the start of a new chapter where differences can be settled amicably, in the best interest of Botswana.
